Today, I want to shine a light on herbal medicine, which can be incredibly beneficial in treating common winter illnesses. While many people are quick to turn to antibiotics, they are only effective against bacterial infections, leaving many other ailments untreated. It is also important to mention that there are actually antimicrobial herbs that can tackle bacterial infections effectively. Hence, bacterial infections can sometimes be managed without antibiotics. Not always of course, and severity and vitality of the person can be a factor to consider as well. However, if you can avoid them it is best to, as they do bring their problems. The most important problem they pose is their ability to disrupt the gut microbiome, which plays a significant role in our immune system.As a result you can sometimes treat one problem, but create another. However, if you need to take antibiotics, we can always address the mess afterwards (hello prebiotics and probiotics!)
However, I digress, back to focusing on how herbal medicine can help. An added benefit of herbal medicine is its ability to both treat infections, and symptoms, and as well as strengthen the affected organs. This unique advantage sets herbal medicine apart by not only addressing current issues, but also tonifying the body to prevent future opportunistic infections.
So let me go through some of our herbal actions and medicines that we use to treat the winter bugs, I am particularly focusing on Upper Respiratory Infections (URTIs) or Lower Respiratory Infections (LRTIs).
Firstly, depending on whether it is a virus, bacterial, or fungal infection, the initial approach involves using specific antimicrobials tailored to combat that type of infection. Herbal antimicrobials like echinacea, andrographis, baical skullcap, elderberry, myrrh, pau d’arco, pelargonium, thyme, garlic, golden seal, usnea, oak bark, and pomegranate are among the many amazing herbs we have to consider.
Next, there are immune enhancers like echinacea, pelargonium, cat’s claw, and andrographis. These herbs help strengthen the immune system, equipping the body with extra resources to combat illnesses.
When dealing with an infection, inflammation in the respiratory tract is common and needs to be addressed. Respiratory anti-inflammatories like pleurisy root, liquorice, golden rod, and thyme are effective in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress caused by illness.
Adaptogen herbs are beneficial for the body during times of stress, whether it's physical or emotional stress. Illness is considered a physical stress factor on the body. Herbs like Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, holy basil, and withania can enhance immune function, support the adrenals, boost the body's defence against illness, reduce fatigue, and shorten the duration of sickness.
It is also common to experience nasal congestion and mucus buildup, which is when anticatarrhals come into play. These help decrease excessive mucus and congestion.
Coughs are commonly associated with various URTIs & LRTIs, and the type of cough determines the herbs needed. For a dry, irritated cough, an antitussive is helpful to suppress the cough reflex, soothing the respiratory system. Examples of such herbs include liquorice, marshmallow, ivy, and peppermint.
If you don't have a dry cough, chances are you have a deep, chesty coughs that require clearing mucus from the lungs. To address this, mucolytics help to thin the mucous, making it easier to expel. Examples include elecampane, white horehound, allium (onion), and garlic. We also require an expectorant to help eliminate mucus. Depending on the cough type, there are different expectorants:
Stimulating expectorants work to expel thick mucus from deep within the lungs, beneficial for conditions like bronchitis and bronchial congestion. Examples include elecampane, white horehound, sweet violet, grindelia, and lobelia.
Relaxing expectorants are gentler, aiding mucus removal without force, suitable for night time or weakened individuals. Examples are euphorbia, licorice, ivy leaf, and thyme.
Warming expectorants are ideal for cold, damp lung congestion, often derived from culinary herbs like fennel, cinnamon, garlic, and ginger.
I particularly appreciate the benefits of mucous membrane tonics, as they improve the tone, vigour and function of the mucous membrane, providing soothing relief to the respiratory tract (which lining is composed of mucous membrane). They are ideal for sinus inflammation, sore throats, and soothing the lower respiratory tract. Some examples include ribwort, golden seal, marshmallow, and liquorice.
Lymphatic herbs can also sometimes be necessary. These herbs can enhance lymph movement, promoting the flow of fluid and proteins away from inflamed areas. If the lymphatic system gets congested, lymph nodes enlarge, leading to slow lymphatic drainage. This can significantly affect immune system, impairing the elimination of metabolic waste products from body tissues and circulation. Examples are echinacea, calendula, sweet violet and poke root.
The herbs mentioned above are just a few options available for an URTI or LRTI remedy. As a herbalist, it is essential to consider each person's unique constitution when selecting the right herb for effective results. With a variety of choices, crafting the perfect herbal formula can lead to a speedy recovery. If you're dealing with a lingering bug or infection, quick acute consultations are an option. Through telehealth, I can promptly identify the infection type and recommend the most suitable herbal remedy for you.
N.B These herbs while natural, still exhibit pharmacological reactions in the body. As such it is essential that you see a suitably qualifeid naturaopth or herbalist, to determine the approrpriateness and safety for you. Never self-prescribe, as you may choose something that is unsafe for you, or will not be effective because it doesn't treat your specific set of symptoms. There is a reason that naturopathy is a four year degree!
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